Suriname is the smallest independent country in South America, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean, French Guiana, Guyana, and Brazil. Its capital is Paramaribo, and the country has a population of around 612,000. Suriname's territory is mostly covered by rainforest, and it is known for its high level of ethnic diversity.

The official language is Dutch. Suriname was colonized by the Dutch, with slavery and later indentured servitude shaping its demographic makeup. It became independent from the Netherlands in 1975 and is a member of regional organizations such as CARICOM. The economy depends on natural resources including bauxite, gold, petroleum, and agriculture, although Suriname faces economic challenges today.